Located along the banks of River Mandovi, Panaji is the capital of Goa. Once a nondescript fishing village, Panaji started to gain prominence during the second half of the 18th century when the erstwhile power center of Old Goa gradually faded into oblivion. On March 22, 1843 Panjim was conferred the status of a city and was rechristened `Nova-Goa' or New Goa.
As the Portuguese strengthened their hold over Goa, Panaji developed into a vibrant city bustling with commercial and tourism activities. The Christian rulers built some of Goa's most majestic churches here. The quaint villas and pretty houses with red roof tiles present an enchanting spectacle in Panaji. Most of these buildings bear the hallmark of Portuguese architecture.
As the state capital, Panaji figures prominently in Goa's tourism scenario. It houses some of the prominent government offices and educational institutions. The 15th century palace of Sultan Adil Shah, now housing the government passport office, is a major landmark of the Panjim city. Other major tourist spots include the Dona Paula beach, a bevy of ancient churches and the Braganza Institute.
Places to See:
The palm-fringed beach of Dona Paula features prominently in tours of Panaji. The beach is named after Dona Paula de Menzes, the daughter of a viceroy during the Portuguese rule. The beach has come to be known as a favorite shooting destination for Bollywood movies. It is also a popular hub for various water sports.
The Miramar beach is located very close to the Panaji town. As such the beach remains overcrowded most of the time, with locals and tourists indulged in a multitude of activities. From the beach one can have a nice view of the Aguada fort across the river Mandovi.
The Institute Menezes Braganza is named after eminent Goan freedom fighter Menezes Braganza. The museum boasts of an eclectic collection of paintings, drawings and sculptures, most of them dating back to the Portuguese era.
Statue of Abbe Faria
Located centrally near the Secretariat building, this statue depicts Goan legend Abbe Faria hypnotizing a young woman. A veritable genius, Abbe Faria was a priest, scientist, revolutionary, and hypnotist all rolled into one. After completing his studies in Lisbon, Faria took part in the French Revolution. Faria's contribution to the science of hypnotism is unrivalled and he was the first one to proclaim that hypnotic trances were a result of suggestion therapy.
Known as much for its impressive architecture as for the splendid collection of ancient artifacts and sculptures, the Goa State Museum has done much to preserve the heritage of the state.
Established in 1541, the Church of Mary Immaculate Conception is one of the earliest churches built in Goa. Located at the heart of Panaji, this majestic church is a prominent landmark of the city.
Located at the heart of the Panaji city, the Mahalaxmi temple is a sacred shrine for Hindu devotees. The Mahalaxmi temple enshrines the deity of Mahalaxmi, the Goddess of wealth. Mahalaxmi is also regarded the presiding deity of the Panaji city.
